Pelargoniums - better known by their popular, but botanically incorrect name "geranium" - are among the most popular summer flowers. Over 400 different varieties of geraniums delight the eye both on the balcony and in the garden with their lush and long-lasting blooms. Parents of small children and pet owners in particular are wondering whether the beautiful flowers are poisonous.
While geraniums are not poisonous, they can cause skin irritation
Geraniums are not poisonous to humans
There is an all-clear for both small and large people, because geraniums are considered non-toxic. In people who are sensitive to it, however, the plant sap can cause skin irritations such as redness and itching, although these are unpleasant but completely harmless.
Caution: Geraniums can be fatal to animals
However, the situation is very different when it comes to toxicity in animals, because geraniums are dangerous for many pets. Keepers of small rodents such as hamsters, guinea pigs, hares and rabbits should be particularly careful. With these animals, none of the components of the geranium have any place in the feed. Geraniums are considered harmless for cats and dogs.
Edible geranium flowers
The flowers of the scented geranium in particular can be used, dried or fresh, for various hearty dishes, for desserts or for decoration - for example frozen in an ice cube and then served in a refreshing drink or in Prosecco.
recipe ideas
Scented geraniums exude an intense aroma of roses, mint, lemon or apple and are not only suitable for repelling annoying insects, but can also be used in many different ways in the kitchen. Have you tried the following ideas:
- Blossom butter with geraniums
- geranium liqueur
- Geranium Lemonade
- geranium salad
You can use both the leaves and the flowers.
tips
If you want to use edible geraniums, please do not use store-bought scented geraniums. These are usually treated with a pesticide and are therefore still poisonous. However, you can buy geraniums specially approved for the kitchen or grow them yourself.